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Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Ethnic differences in bone geometry and strength are apparent in childhood
R J Wetzsteon1, J M Hughes, B C Kaufman
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Bone
|May 16, 2009
Summary
African American (AA) and Hispanic (HI) children exhibit greater bone strength than Caucasian (CA) children, attributed to higher bone density and cortical area. These ethnic differences in bone structure are evident in childhood.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Bone Health
- Skeletal Structure and Strength
- Ethnic Disparities in Fractures
Background:
- Ethnic variations in bone strength and structure may explain differences in fracture rates.
- Limited research exists on bone structure in multiethnic pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate ethnic differences in bone strength among children.
- To identify the structural basis for these ethnic differences in bone strength.
Main Methods:
- Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) assessed bone parameters in Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic children.
- Measurements included bone strength indices, density, and area at distal and midshaft sites of the radius and tibia.
- Analysis of covariance adjusted for age, sex, limb length, and muscle cross-sectional area.
Main Results:
- African American and Hispanic children demonstrated significantly higher bone strength (10-37%) compared to Caucasian children.
- Increased bone strength in African American and Hispanic children was primarily due to greater bone volumetric density (2-18%) and larger bone area (7-18%).
- These differences were observed at both distal and midshaft bone sites.
Conclusions:
- African American and Hispanic children possess superior bone strength compared to Caucasian children.
- Greater bone volumetric density and cortical area contribute to the enhanced bone strength in African American and Hispanic children.
- Ethnic disparities in bone strength are established during childhood.
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